7 Ways to Sneak in Back-to-School Prep While Keeping the Summer Fun
Ah, July, that strange liminal part of summer when the dog days seem to simultaneously fly by and drag, slouching ever toward the Back to School season. You may have even noticed the annual reemergence of Back to School banners at your local grocery store. Like many parents, you may find yourself wondering how your kids can enjoy what’s left of summer vacation while transitioning to a Back to School mindset. Don’t worry! We’ve compiled some clever ways to sneak in back-to-school prep without taking away from your kids’ favorite summer activities. Who needs summer camp when you’ve got Varsity Tutors?
1. Summer reading challenges
Go from “Ugh, summer reading,” to “Yay! Reading during summer!” by adding a fun twist to your summer reading routine. Use July 4th as a kickoff date and set up a reading "fireworks" display at home. For every book or chapter completed, add a paper firework to the display (or, for older kids, allow them to buy an actual firework for your July 4th plans.) Plan a special celebration at the end of the month with a small reward for reaching reading goals.
Resources We Love: Browse our Reading and English small group classes for reading
lists, story times, book clubs and more!
2. Backyard science experiments
July is perfect for outdoor science experiments. Turn your own backyard into a mini lab with fun experiments like making a baking soda and vinegar volcano or creating sun prints with special paper. These activities are a great way to get kids excited about science while enjoying the sunny weather.
Note: If you’re in an area with an active burn ban, save anything that might cause a spark for the wetter months. Might be time to bust out the sidewalk chalk instead.
3. DIY school supply projects
Personalized school supplies are always in. This summer, involve kids in creating their own school supplies. Host a July craft day where they can decorate notebooks, lunch boxes, pencil cases, and backpacks. Use themes like Independence Day colors or summer beach vibes to make it seasonal and fun. Your kid will be stoked for the school year knowing they have new supplies to show their friends.
4. Educational scavenger hunts
Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Plan an educational scavenger hunt around your neighborhood or a local park. Create a list of items related to different subjects, like math (find three objects that form a triangle), science (identify a plant or insect), and history (find a local landmark). It's a perfect way to blend outdoor fun with learning, and you can get the whole family involved.
5. Math in the market
Remember Supermarket Sweep? Turning a trip to the farmers' market (or supermarket) into a math lesson is a great way to make math and budgeting fun. Give kids a budget and a shopping list, and have them figure out how much they can buy while staying within their budget. This new routine is a practical way to practice math skills while enjoying fresh produce.
6. Organize Puzzles and games
Keep your kids’ minds sharp and encourage critical thinking and problem solving by dedicating part of their weekly schedules to brain teasers, puzzles, and cooperative learning. From simple jigsaw puzzles to flash cards, to riddle competitions, you’d be surprised how spending quality time on puzzles can command your children’s attention just as much as iPads or cell phones in the right circumstances. Kids love games; take advantage of that when prepping for the school year!
Resources We Love: At VT, we have our own Puzzles, Riddles, and Brainteasers courses, for both younger and older kids.
7. Nature Walks and Journaling
Take advantage of the warm weather and spend quality time outside with regular nature walks. Bring along notebooks and pencils, and have kids journal about the plants, animals, and insects they observe. The summer climate allows you to do this in the morning and night, and this activity combines physical exercise, science education, and writing practice.
Remember, the goal is to blend educational activities with the fun of summer so that kids are prepared for school without feeling like they’re missing out on their break. Enjoy your July and happy learning!
